What does Medicare cover for Alzheimer's patients?

Jul 7
1 min read

Home Health Nurse comforting an older adult at home.

An Alzheimer's diagnosis can bring many questions, including what Medicare will help cover. While Medicare does not cover every type of care a person with Alzheimer's may need, it does cover many medically necessary services.

According to Medicare, Part A may cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care following a qualifying hospital stay, hospice care, and certain home health services for eligible beneficiaries. Part B covers medically necessary doctor visits, outpatient care, diagnostic services, mental health services, and durable medical equipment when medically necessary.

If you qualify for the home health benefit, Medicare covers intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology services, medical social services, and part-time home health aide services when they are included in your physician's plan of care and provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency.

It is important to understand that Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care. This includes ongoing assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or supervision when these are the only services needed.

At OCTIHEALTH, we help eligible patients receive skilled home health services ordered by their physician. Our experienced team works with families to provide compassionate care that supports safety, independence, and quality of life at home.

If you have questions about Medicare home health benefits or would like to learn whether you or a loved one may qualify for skilled home health services, contact OCTIHEALTH at (847) 305-3070.